In a surprising development on the recruiting trail, elite Class of 2025 guard Kelis Fisher has decommitted from UConn and will instead join the South Carolina Gamecocks, flipping her commitment just months after pledging to the Huskies.
Fisher, a 5-foot-9 standout from Baltimore currently playing at IMG Academy, had been considered a key piece in UConn’s next generation under Hall of Fame coach Geno Auriemma. The sharpshooting guard announced her reversal on Sunday morning in a statement posted to social media.
“This was not an easy decision, but after thoughtful conversations with my family and the amazing staff at South Carolina, I’ve decided to reopen my recruitment — and I’m excited to announce I’ll be continuing my journey as a Gamecock,” Fisher wrote. “Thank you to Coach Geno and the UConn staff for believing in me. This is about finding the best fit for my growth on and off the court.”
Sources close to the situation say South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley remained in close contact with Fisher throughout the recruiting process, even after her original commitment to UConn in January 2023. The Gamecocks’ emphasis on player development, championship culture, and a growing track record of preparing guards for the WNBA reportedly played a major role in Fisher’s late switch.
Staley and her staff were quick to celebrate the flip.
“Kelis is the kind of player who fits right into what we do — gritty, intelligent, explosive,” said an assistant coach who asked to remain unnamed. “She wanted a place where she could thrive, and we’re thrilled she chose Columbia.”
Fisher’s reversal leaves a noticeable gap in UConn’s incoming class, which had already been shaping up with international star Blanca Quiñonez and Ireland native Gandy Malou-Mamel. While the Huskies are still expected to be a national contender in the coming years, Fisher’s departure is a clear win for the reigning champion Gamecocks.
This flip marks yet another recruiting victory for South Carolina, which has solidified itself as the program to beat in women’s college basketball — both on the court and in the living room.
“Sometimes things just click,” Fisher said. “And when I visited Columbia again, it just felt like home.”
Related: UConn Regroups After Fisher Decommitment
Related: Dawn Staley’s Recruiting Machine Rolls On with Fisher Flip
© 2025 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved. Original story published April 13, 2025.
